Sora & AI in Elections

Here’s what we’ll be covering:

• OpenAI Sora

• AI & Hacking

• Russian Hacking Operation

• NO! To AI in Elections

• Russian Anti-Satellite

OpenAI Sora

Recently, OpenAI announced the development of a new version of its image-generating AI, called Sora, that can create 60-second, convincingly realistic videos, with just a text prompt. According to The Washington Post, Sora’s videos have an immense leap in quality. For now, the company has announced it will release the basic tool to a small group of artists, filmmakers, and researchers. However, the technology behind these and other "text-to-video" AI generators has rapidly progressed to the point where it’s impossible for anyone, experts or regular people, to distinguish them from a real video. In the film industry, people are hoping to use it in TV and movies. Elsewhere, the fear is, that deep fakes might be used for darker purposes, such as meddling in elections. Thus, While experts agree that the technology will inevitably make its way into filmmaking and art, there’s a sense of acceptance that deep fakes will permeate all aspects of the real world because they are, in many ways, indistinguishable from the real thing.

AI-generated image of mammoth. @OpenAI

AI & Hacking

According to The Washington Post, both Microsoft and OpenAI reported that hacking groups in Russia, China, Iran, and North Korea are using AI tools to enhance their online spying ability, which may be used in future cyberattacks. These groups are linked to specific uses of large language models (LLMs), which power AI programs such as those offered by OpenAI and Bing chatbots. Microsoft has cut off access to these tools for some groups and will notify other toolmakers. The report portrays the dangerous research that state-sponsored hacking groups are doing on security flaws and potential targets, including AI capabilities for military purposes.

Someone programming a website in HTML. @Mika Baumeister

Russian Hacking Operation

According to The New York Times, the FBI, with global cooperation, disrupted a Russian hacking operation targeting over 1,000 internet routers worldwide. Using a court order, the FBI removed stolen data and malware from the hacked routers, hindering Russia's cyber activities. This action is part of a broader effort to counter Russia's cybercampaigns. FBI Director Christopher Wray highlighted ongoing cyber threats from both Russia and China, emphasizing China's massive hacking program. The announcement follows revelations about Russia's pursuit of a space-based nuclear weapon. The FBI has recently thwarted a similar cyber campaign from China, consistent with warnings of increased malicious activity from China, Iran, and Russia against the United States.

NO! To AI in Elections

Elections are coming up and with AI deep fakes plaguing the internet, it's hard to trust anything we see anymore. However, according to the BBC, major tech companies, including Amazon, Google, and Microsoft, have pledged to combat deceptive AI in elections by signing the Tech Accord. The voluntary pact aims to develop technology, ensure transparency, share best practices, and educate the public. Critics argue it may not be proactive enough. The focus is on preventing deceptive content from altering the appearance, voice, or actions of key figures in elections and countering false information about voting. The accord comes amid concerns about AI's potential to amplify disinformation during elections, as noted by US Deputy Attorney General Lisa Monaco. Google and Meta have previously outlined policies on AI-generated content in political advertising.

Person holding "I Voted" Items. @Janine Robinson

Russian Anti-Satellite

According to the BBC, the US has expressed concern over Russia developing a new anti-satellite weapon, which is reported to be space-based and armed with a nuclear weapon to target satellites. While the weapon has not been deployed yet, he stated that President Biden is taking the matter seriously and has initiated diplomatic engagement with Russia. The details of the threat remain undisclosed, but reports suggest it is related to Russia's development of a nuclear-capable weapon capable of striking US satellites in space. Experts highlight the potential impact on US military and civilian dependence on satellites for various functions. The current geopolitical climate raises concerns about adherence to international treaties, such as the Outer Space Treaty of 1967, which prohibits the deployment of nuclear weapons in space. The development underscores the growing focus on space as a potential battlefield.

Image of a satellite. @NASA